Analects · Chapter
Book XVI: Ke She explained
This chapter begins with Confucius admonishing his disciples Zǎn Yû and Chî-lû for supporting their chief's planned attack on Chwan-yü, emphasizing the importance of virtuous governance and the proper role of ministers.
What happens
This chapter begins with Confucius admonishing his disciples Zǎn Yû and Chî-lû for supporting their chief's planned attack on Chwan-yü, emphasizing the importance of virtuous governance and the proper role of ministers. Confucius then delivers a series of teachings on the nature of good government, the dangers of power being held by the wrong people, and the qualities of beneficial versus harmful friendships and enjoyments. He also discusses the errors to avoid in the presence of superiors, the things the superior man guards against and stands in awe of, the classes of learners, and the nine things the superior man thoughtfully considers. The chapter concludes with an anecdote about Po-yü learning the Odes and the rules of Propriety from his father, and a note on the proper titles for the wife of a prince.
Themes in this chapter
Virtuous Governance
Confucius criticizes the planned attack on Chwan-yü, advocating for the cultivation of virtue to attract distant peoples rather than military force.
Ritual and Propriety
The chapter discusses the importance of learning the rules of Propriety for establishing one's character, and the proper titles for the wife of a prince.
Self-Cultivation
Confucius outlines the nine things the superior man thoughtfully considers, and the three things he guards against, emphasizing personal discipline.
The Superior Man
The chapter repeatedly contrasts the superior man with the mean man, highlighting the superior man's awe of Heaven, great men, and sages' words.
Characters to notice
- Confucius
Central figure delivering teachings on governance, friendship, self-cultivation, and propriety.
- Yen Yû
One of the disciples rebuked by Confucius for supporting the attack on Chwan-yü.
- Chî Lû
Another disciple present during the discussion about the attack on Chwan-yü.
- Tsze-kung
Not directly mentioned in this chapter, but his presence is implied through the context of Confucius's teachings.
- Po-niû
Not directly mentioned in this chapter, but his presence is implied through the context of Confucius's teachings.
- Tsze-chang
Not directly mentioned in this chapter, but his presence is implied through the context of Confucius's teachings.
- Tsze-hsiâ
Not directly mentioned in this chapter, but his presence is implied through the context of Confucius's teachings.
- Tsǎng Shǎn
Not directly mentioned in this chapter, but his presence is implied through the context of Confucius's teachings.
Key passages
“When good government prevails in the empire, ceremonies, music, and punitive military expeditions proceed from the son of Heaven.”
In a well-ordered state, the ruler holds supreme authority over rituals and military actions.
Confucius emphasizes the proper hierarchy of power.
“There are three friendships which are advantageous, and three which are injurious.”
Some friendships benefit you, while others harm you.
Confucius categorizes friends based on their character.
“The superior man has nine things which are subjects with him of thoughtful consideration.”
The ideal person reflects on nine aspects of conduct.
This list guides the superior man in daily life.
“If you do not learn the Odes, you will not be fit to converse with.”
Without studying the Odes, you cannot speak properly.
Confucius stresses the importance of the Odes for communication.
